Gokwe

Gokwe is a town in north-western Midlands Province, serving as the administrative and commercial centre for the Gokwe District — one of Zimbabwe's most populous rural districts. The area is a major cotton-producing region, and Gokwe is sometimes called the "cotton capital" of Zimbabwe. The town has a frontier feel, with a hot climate and large rural population.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Harare (HRE), 300 km east (4 hours by road).

By Train

No passenger train service.

By Car / Road

Gokwe is 300 km west of Harare via Kwekwe and the Gokwe road (4 hours). The road is tarred but deteriorates in sections. Minibus kombis run from Kwekwe.

The town is walkable. A 4WD is useful for visiting rural areas.

• Gokwe cotton fields: The vast cotton plantations that dominate the local economy.

• Gokwe market: A busy rural market.

• Cotton farming tour: See how Zimbabwe's key cash crop is grown and processed.

• Basic eateries: Sadza and meat at local restaurants.

Bottled water is recommended.

• Gokwe Hotel: Basic rooms from US$20–35.

Cotton products and local crafts at the market.

• Kwekwe (180 km east, 3 hours) — mining and industrial city.
• Gweru (220 km south-east, 3.5 hours) — Midlands capital.
• Matusadona National Park (200 km north, 4 hours) — Lake Kariba wildlife.